Calexico native recognized for her leadership and civic contributions in the Imperial Valley
(SACRAMENTO) – Earlier today at the State Capitol, Patricia Urena of El Centro was honored as the 56th Assembly District’s 2016 Woman of the Year. Selected for the honor by Assemblymember Eduardo Garcia, Ms. Urena joined women from all over the state to be recognized for their contributions during a special Assembly Floor Session.
“As the Chairwoman of the Calexico Parks and Recreation Department, Urena has dedicated her entire life to making parks and recreation activities accessible for everyone in the Imperial County,” said Assemblymember Eduardo Garcia. “Ms. Urena committed herself to help kids and showing them that there is an alternative for a better life, giving them a track to follow and letting them be the artists of their own life,” stated Assemblymember Eduardo Garcia.
In accepting the honor, Ms. Urena said, “I am truly humbled by this award and grateful. It’s an honor being here today alongside many other amazing women who are committed to their communities”
The Woman of the Year Awards Celebration is held at the State capitol. The day’s proceedings include a brunch reception hosted by the Legislative Women’s Caucus, followed by a special recognition ceremony on the Floor of the State Assembly.
Patricia Urena is the 56th Assembly District Woman of the Year for her work with youth and individuals with disabilities. For 10 years Urena has served as the area director for Special Olympics in Imperial Valley. Currently, Urena serves as the local National Youth Program Using Mini-Bike motorcycles, a program that gets 10- to 15-year-olds involved in off-road riding. Urena also serves as the Chairperson for the Juvenile Justice Commission for Imperial County.
Urena serves as the Chairwoman for the Calexico Parks and Recreation Department’s, Kiwanis Club and Optimist Club. She has also been the recreation supervisor for the El Centro Parks and Recreation Department for more than 34 years. In 2010, Urena was named Women of the Year for Mana of Imperial Valley and Women of the Year in 2008 for the Center for Family Solutions. Urena is a role model and she has made exceptional contributions to her community.
After graduating from Calexico High School, Urena then went to Imperial Valley College where she studied Physical Education & Recreation. Urena attended San Diego State University. In 1982, she applied to be a ceramics instructor for the El Centro recreation department. Using her experience from a larger city, Urena quickly developed sports leagues and helped form the diverse offering of programming in Imperial County. During her years of service, Urena has created many new innovative programs for city youth and has a love for the work she does and the people that work with her.
She is a proud single mom of Robert Patrick. Urena has faith in everything that she does and develops her strength through prayer and faith in love.
